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Are You a Smartphone SmartUser?

At the end of the year I try to look at what I'm doing in my business and figure out if there's a better, easier, more effective way. With technology being such a large part of real estate these days, my computer and other devices get some serious attention.

I know that I could not be as effective as I am – as a solo agent – without all my tech tools, but especially my Treo. The question is, am I getting everything out of it I can? I'm not sure, but on December 3 I'll find out.

Smartphone Seminar

That's the day I'm co-sponsoring a PDA and Smartphone Training session at the Greater Baltimore Board of Realtors office. Dick Betts, an NAR certified e-PRO trainer is going to present two sessions that will help us get the most from these handy gadgets. Even if you don't yet own one, this is a day that will help you decide whether it's right for you. The information applies to devices with either Palm or Windows operating systems, and covers everything from the basics to the bells and whistles.

Treo

In the morning, Dick will cover using a Smartphone to help organize and manage your business (and life!). During the afternoon, we'll learn how to turn our Smartphone into a mobile office. And in between…lunch is provided courtesy of East Coast Title! If you're anywhere in the Baltimore area, this will be a Monday well spent.

It's on my calendar…how about yours?

Posted by Margaret Rome-- HomeRome Realty Baltimore, Md. on 11/24/2007 02:27 PM

Comments (49)

treo, smartphone, baltimore, maryland, gbbr

Originally posted at: Margaret Rome's Blog: Are You a Smartphone SmartUser?

This post has been included in Maryland Information

49 Comments on Are You a Smartphone SmartUser?

NOV

2007

I LOVE my TREO. I don't know what I'd do without it! I have my entire schedule in there, my mobile Top Producer, my contacts, my e-mail is linked right to my phone, my Supra key is on it, Internet, and mobile MLS (I can pull up any listing in a matter of seconds).

It's an incredible tool and every agent should have one!

Jeff, Wish you were located closer so you could attend. Sounds like you are already a pro with your Treo.

Margaret, we're having one in my area as well, the ad looks very similar! I think it's right around that time as well. Haven't made my reservation yet, but am hoping to soon!

Chris, I have heard good things about Dick Betts and I am looking forward to his full day session.

I just picked up the new Palm Centro. It is a lot smaller and I like it.

Margaret - looks interesting - is the iPhone in the category of a smart phone?

Randy, Palm Centro looks really cute. What were you using before and how does it compare.

Aziz, Yes, and I hope you will join us. It would be great to have a bunch of Active Rainers attend.

I LOVE my Treo! The Supra e-key feature is awesome! I only wish more agents would use the system - it's so frustrating for me to take the time to send e-feedback from my Treo after a showing only to get a phone call from the listing agent requesting feedback because they don't know how (or care how) to use the Supra online system.

Tina, For some reason, our area does not support the Supra e-key feature.

Margaret --to be sure -- are you telling me that he will discuss the iPhone as well? if so--this is good timing b/c I have started to research the various phones but leaning toward iPhone b/c it would sync with my Mac.

Aziz, I have just sent Dick Betts an email..just to make sure. Sounds like this seminar is perfect timing.. before you make a decision on which device to purchase. Look forward to meeting you.

This is most interesting. I've never heard of such a specialized class before. I guess I can see the need for it, considering the level of expertise in our field. I teach technology at our local board. Very hard sometimes to talk to 30 people when 1 can text faster than I can talk, and another wants me to explain what a web browser is.

As for my phone, I prefer Windows mobile for it's ability to sync with my SBS server. I currently have a UTC 6700 thru Verizon, but I want to get a Samsung i760. The Samsung is the only smart phone I know of with a full slide out QWERTY keyboard, and has a phone dial pad on the front - not part of a touch sensitive screen.

I have a Treo 750. I love that I can sync with my Outlook at work and my own personal computer. With the 2G memory card I can carry my workig files anywhere I go. I Love It!!!

The standard stuff is just the start. Take a look at bluetooth apps such as proximity sensors and pc applications to let you office know when you come and go - and a bunch of other cool stuff.

NOV

2007

Sounds like a worthwhile class to get the most out of our technology.

I took my classes at the National convention but could use a refresher....wonder if I should drive down??

Greg, Would like to hear more of what you teach to your board.

Patricia, Sounds like you have figured out the right phone for the way you work.

Adam, I think we are all looking forward to learning ...."a bunch of other cool stuff. "

Nancy, I think it will be a good class.

Monika, I would really, really love for you to come to Baltimore! Because of the long drive...you might want to check Dick's schedule and find out when he will be in your area.

Margaret,

The most difficult class to teach. I try to leave everyone with a tidbit that will help them make money while spending very little. FOR INSTANCE:

www.realestateshows.com Probably the best, and lowest cost Virtual Tour out there

www.voicegenesis.com Any cell phone that can get text messages can recieve email for $5 per month

www.jott.com Leave yourself notes that get converted to emails - Free

www.cellsigns.com Mobile Agent - we're signing up MLS wide, but you could make a strong buyers agent base out of this

I also cover photography, basic website SEO and using Google adwords Keyword tool, Domain names, and some email marketing/branding

Greg, Thanks for sharing the good tips. Bet your classes are well received.

NOV

2007

For those that can't physically get to a training session (and this one sounds great), there are online alternatives. A quick search after buying my Motorola Q smartphone pointed me to resources at wikipedia, accessories at boxwave, forums with tips and suggestions at everythingq.com and general info at smartphone.net to start. The Windows Mobile site has some ideas, too, and I'm sure there are plenty of others.

Of course, this method requires you to delve and dig for the info that you find useful. It's much easier to get it from a one-day presentation!

Robert, As you said, there are online alternatives to getting this training.... and there is always RTFM.

A few Treos ago, I bought this great big thick book just for the Treo but never used it. I do admire people who buy a new car or device and read all the manuals...I am not one of those.

This seminar started by mentioning to another agent ..let's get a few Treo users togethter and give our best tips to each other.

Margaret,
We would be lost without our Treos as well. Do I foresee a Training for Treos blog post in the future to let us know about some tips and tricks?

NOV

2007

David and Kristin, Is that a crystal ball you are peering into?

Margaret,
Yes it is a crystal ball.. It's saying...
"Training For Your Phone..
With Margaret Rome"

David and Kristin,

Is that the title for my future blog?

Margaret,
The feeling I am getting is yes. Whaddya think? Am I close? That looks like a great course.

David and Kristin, I think you guys should drive up from Myrtle Beach for this session.

Hi Margaret, this is a great post. I wouldn't know what to do without my Treo... my entire database is in there. Have fun at the training session.

NOV

2007

Thanks Vincent! New York is only a few hours away. Drive down or I will pick you up at the train.

I agree and I look as the year goes along because I am trying very hard to be paperless and every since my Husband set up this eFax messenger I do not have to print any thing any more unless it needs my signature.

Hi Margaret,

I've had the Blackberry for around a year..I get all my emails and I can even blog if I want.

Susan, I use the Dashboard for my faxes ;everything comes right to my computer. I can also sign without printing.

Neal. You are ahead of the crowd.

Would be interesting to know what is considered "the best" smart phone for real estate. Guess it depends on your needs, but as with so much technology, you can become almost frozen in trying to decide what to buy, for fear that there is something "better", "faster", "easier", oh yeah, or "cheaper", out there.

From what I've seen the TREO is at least close to top of the heap, if nothing else because of it's MLS / Supra capabilities.

Maybe we should start a poll to see what everyone else is using and how they rate them . . .

PS . . .

Maybe you can post your "Top 5" tips from the class or something, for those of us unable to attend because we're trapped in remote and distant places (like the North Georgia mountains, for example), and don't get out much . . .

NOV

2007

I love my Windows 5.0 based MDA. I use it as a phone, eKey, and PDA. Too bad you aren't doing the training a little closer. I'm sure there is more usage I could squeeze out of this thing.

Lane, Check with Dick Betts as he may have a class in your area. The best device is the one you will use and are comfortable with.

Trent, That's a good idea to post the Top 5 tips. Stay tuned.

The best device is the one you will use! ATT will be able to help with question about different phones.

DEC

2007

Hi guys. I am jealous.

I need a phone that does "PUSH MAIL", in other words, I can't wait to check to get home or my office to check my mail.

Does anybody know if PALM CENTRO provides that feature?

T H A N K Y O U !

DEC

2007

I am an ex-palm, ex-handspring, ex-mircosoft (Toshiba PDA) and ex-Treo user. I love the smart phones, think they are fantastic.

For me, I used them to keep my contacts and calendar up to date and hated carrying 2 items. I also got tired of the big clunkiness of my Treo 650. I wanted a clam shell phone. I never used the email or web functions (mainly b/c Verizon is so damn expensive!).

So I switched to Suncom and got a Nokia clam shell phone. It uses Nokia's syncing software and keep my contacts and calendar sync'd up. I love it!

If you use the email and web, I do recommend the Treo though... was very good phone.

Ed, Sounds like you have tried almost all of the phones and found the one that works best for you. The device to use is the one you are happy with.

Nestor, I think most phones due 'push' mail, depending upon how you set up your wireless synch/email settings. The more often you have it pushed, the less time your battery will last, though. Almost any Windows Mobile OS phone will do it, probably the Palm OS, too.

DEC

2007

Trent, Here is the post that you asked for. Treo, Treo, Everywhere! It was a good class with lots of interest and lots of learning.

DEC

2007

T-Mobile and I truly need some training. What a great seminar to offer.

Rosemary, You should have no problem finding training in California.

I have a Black Berry Curve, I love it.

DEC

2007

John, Loving your Blackberry, means you are using it and that it is right for you! Thanks for stopping by.

MAR

2008

I'm only minutes away from getting a centro...wish me luck

Charlie, I wish you luck!

I'vebeen using a Treo 700WX for a year now and I hate it. It is thicker than my balckberry was, does not get good reception and drops calls all the time. I have used 4 of them during the past 12 months and everyone of them has done the same things. Called Alltel tech support from the store and while we were on speaker phone the technician told me to turn in an insurance claim and get a different one. Stay away from the TREo 700Wx from Alltel

Bartley Group, (not sure who is writing). Get rid of a device that you hate!

Is it possible for you exchange it for the 700p ?

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